San Francisco loves a good party.

Hearkening back to the days of the Barbary Coast, San Francisco has always known how to throw a party. And it still does. Though some have scaled back, many of downtown’s poshest digs are still putting on sumptuous spreads and decadent dance parties to put 2008 to bed and welcome the promises of a new year. Here is a short-list of some of the action.

Top choice hotel among movie stars, musicians and wealthy entrepreneurs, the elegant Clift offers a one-night hotel package and “ultimate cocktail party”  that starts at $685 and includes accommodation and admission for two to the party with a hosted bar, hors d’oevres from Asia de Cuba and music by DJ Rockaton and DJ Marshall Barnes.

The New Year’s Eve dinner and dance gala at the Top of the Mark (with one of the city’s most stunning and legendary views) features a four-course dinner, complimentary bottle of Moet & Chandon White Star and live entertainment from Ben Marcato and the Mondo Combo for $319 per person. Or spend the night in a deluxe room and get tix to the gala plus New Year’s Day brunch, valet parking, late checkout and in-room strawberries and champagne for $1,350.

They are partying at the Ritz. At the Dining Room, chef Ron Siegel serves up a seven-course tasting meal to accompany dancing to live music for  $500 per person including wine pairing. On the Terrace, the three- or five-course menu includes a glass of champagne. Adults are $100 or $130 and children are welcome for $50 or $65 per child (5-12) depending on which menu is chosen.

At the Four Seasons Gala, is a seven-course dinner is being created by Executive Chef Mark Richardson. A live band and dancing will follow dinner with a champagne toast at midnight for $250. If you’re in the mood for New Year’s Eve cocktails – Seasons Bar with floor-to-ceiling city views, will be hosting an evening of cocktails, dancing to a live band and champagne toast at midnight.

Did someone say something about a recession?

Photo courtesy of Swotai at Flickr.com